It’s not too late to get back to the basics of healthy eating. The importance of following a well-balanced and nutrient –dense eating plan packed with tasty foods is celebrated this month. National Nutrition Month®, created annually in March by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, is a campaign focused on the importance of making informed food choices and developing sound eating and physical activity habits.

This year’s theme “Savor the Flavor of Eating Right” encourages taking a moment to enjoy the culture and tradition of food by soaking in the flavor and pleasure that nutritious foods provide. Make it a point this month to refocus your attention from concentrating on specific food and nutrients and instead vow to implement a healthy eating pattern by balancing a rainbow of tasty foods and beverages from each food group. The goal is to promote overall health by reducing the risk of chronic disease though maintaining a healthy weight, developing individualized physical activity habits, and practicing a balanced diet that get your taste buds dancing!

If you are looking to get involved this month here are some ideas:

Plan a cooking demo or nutrition event

Organize a National Nutrition Month® presentation at your local park district or senior center

As a family, commit to trying a new fruit or vegetable each week during National Nutrition Month®.

Organize a food donation campaign for a local food pantry or shelter

Plan to eat more meals together as a family during National Nutrition Month®

For more information on National Nutrition Month® and how to get involved visit http://www.eatright.org/resources/national-nutrition-month

Special thanks to Dietetic Intern Amanda Cravinho for her contributions to this post.